When planning your epic sunshine getaway, there’s no denying that Jamaica has some of the best beaches in the world. Combine this with incredible Jamaican food and reggae music and you’ve got the recipe for the perfect holiday. Jamaica really does have a beach for everyone.
With over 55 beaches stretching along 900 kilometres of coastline, Jamaica offers a variety of options to suit every taste. Whether you’re looking for a private or public beach, a bustling hotspot or a secluded retreat, perfect for water sports or simply lounging with a cocktail, Jamaica has it all. From the lively atmosphere of Seven Mile Beach to the tranquil waters of Frenchman’s Cove, Jamaica’s diverse beaches cater to every type of traveller.
Doctor’s Cave Beach
Perhaps one of the most famous beaches in Jamaica, Doctor’s Cave Beach is a private beach just off the Hip Strip in Montego Bay. It’s named after a doctor who donated the land for a swimming club. Today, it’s a popular spot for those who want to bask in the sun without the distraction of blaring music and souvenir hawkers, as both are banned here.
As part of the Doctor’s Cave Beach Club, there are full facilities including a restaurant and beach bar. You can hire equipment such as sunbeds and parasols and enjoy water sports.
Entrance fee: $6 for adults, $3 for children.
Seven Mile Beach aka Negril Beach
Located in the popular town of Negril, the white sands and turquoise waters of Seven Mile Beach draw crowds. This is the longest beach in Jamaica and is lined with hotels, restaurants and all sorts of amenities. If you’re looking for a good beach party, this is the place to be, as it tends to go on late into the night.
Seven Mile Beach offers a variety of watersports and has designated areas for nude sunbathing. For the brave, it’s a popular spot for cliff jumping. For those less inclined to take the plunge, visit the Cliffhanger Bar and enjoy the views without the adrenaline rush.
Mammee Bay Beach, Ocho Rios
and a public beach. The public side is just as stunning and popular as its private counterpart. With plenty of spots to sunbathe, sun loungers available for rent, and a variety of beachfront restaurants, it’s a great destination for a relaxing day by the sea.
Active travelers will love the waves at Mammee Bay Beach, making it a favorite for windsurfing and wakeboarding. Whether you’re looking to catch some sun or catch some waves, Mammee Bay Beach has something for everyone.
Boston Bay
Known as much for its surf as its jerk chicken, Boston Bay is a small bay in Portland on the east side of the island. It’s a favourite for surfing enthusiasts and is considered the birthplace of jerk chicken, with many excellent jerk stands.
While there are plenty of food stalls, the beach is small and uncrowded, offering a more relaxed experience with fewer amenities. It’s perfect for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle.
Frenchman’s Cove
This lagoon-style beach is truly spectacular, with a river flowing into the ocean. The surrounding cliffs give a sense of wilderness and tranquillity.
So beautiful that it was used as a filming location for the iconic movie Lord of the Flies, Frenchman’s Cove offers a secluded feel while being close to Montego Bay and Ocho Rios.
This private beach has a $10 entrance fee and is ideal for families, with showers, toilets and a restaurant.
Treasure Beach aka Calabash Bay Beach
Located on the south coast, Treasure Beach is one of the places to find black sand beaches in Jamaica. It’s ideal for tourists who want to get away from it all, including the crowds and resort prices. You’ll find plenty of small vendors serving very reasonably priced food.
There are no all-inclusive resorts in this small fishing town, making it perfect for discovering Jamaica’s quieter side. It’s not the most picturesque beach, but it’s ideal for those seeking a more authentic and peaceful experience.
Oracabessa Bay
Take a stroll along James Bond Beach and you will discover the Oracabessa Bay Fish Sanctuary, a hidden gem created in 2010 to protect Oracabessa’s marine ecosystem. This sanctuary is not only a haven for marine life, but also a fantastic destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
The sanctuary offers excellent snorkelling opportunities, allowing you to explore vibrant coral reefs and see a variety of tropical fish in their natural habitat. The crystal clear waters provide perfect visibility, making it easy to spot colourful parrotfish, angelfish and even the occasional sea turtle.
As well as snorkelling, you can immerse yourself in the local culture by meeting friendly fishermen aboard their colourful boats. Engaging in conversation with these fishermen provides an insight into the traditional way of life in Oracabessa, where fishing is a deeply rooted cultural practice.
A visit to the Oracabessa Bay Fish Sanctuary supports vital conservation efforts to ensure that the beauty and biodiversity of this marine ecosystem is preserved for future generations. So next time you find yourself on James Bond Beach, venture a little further and discover the enchanting world of Oracabessa Bay.
